Poverty breeds new generation of Filipino rebels

AP

Some members of the communist New Peoples Army have their faces painted to hide their identity during the celebration of the 42nd anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010 at Mt. Diwata in southern Philipnes. The military and the communist New Peoples Party have agreed for a two-week cease fire for the Christmas season. (AP Photo/Pat Roque)

December 27, 2010 7:02:47 AM PST

By JIM GOMEZ, Associated Press

MOUNT DIWATA, Philippines - December 27, 2010 --

Too poor to afford school beyond fourth grade in the southern Philippines, 19-year-old Johnny Buyo walked away from home six months ago to join the communist rebellion - one of Asia's longest-running. He was handed a rusty M16 rifle, which he vowed to keep for life.